I love this sign at the Indiana border!

Day 2 of the Road Trip West - February 28, 2013
     Today we had the opportunity to sleep in a bit as we were only driving to Chicago where we are spending the night with Daryl's sister Ruth and her husband Mark.  It so happens that a tree fell on their house during a storm last August and so their house is under major construction.  This resulted in a pleasant stay for all of us at some close friends of theirs, Mary Pat and Tom.  It couldn't have worked out better if we would have planned it.  Daryl and I are staying in their adopted son's room who is African American.  We also adopted an African American.  We both share a common joy in that we took in foster children and have many miracle stories to tell.  Tom and I both used to sell insurance.  Their son, Tom Jr., is a musician and gave some wonderful gifts to Daryl!  We are blessed by these remarkable surprises.

     To top it off, we got to see the off Broadway show, "I Love Lucy."  Daryl's niece is playing the role of Ethel.  She is an incredible actress and singer.  If you get the chance to see it, don't miss it!  Mark and Ruth treated us to Daryl's all time favorite - Chicago deep dish pizza!  He has been talking about this for years from the good ole days when he lived here for a brief time.
   
     Even though most of the day was filled with gray skies and the occasional snow shower, our lives were enriched all along the way.  We had lunch at a Cantonese restaurant and it was fabulous. It must have been senior citizen day though, by the looks of the patrons - wheelchairs and walkers.  I loved all the laughter and chatter about hip replacements, trips to the doctor etc.  The best surprise of the day was when three burly looking guys entered and sat down near us.  Shortly after their drinks were delivered one of the fellas said, "Can I pray?"  "Sure," the other two said.  Now I know I was eavesdropping but it showered me with God's tender mercies right in the midst of that Cantonese diner.  "God, thank you for the food, for what we have and for these good friends. Amen."  "Amen" the other two said and I said amen.  But it didn't stop there.  The youngest fella turned to the others, "You know, I might not have much, I might be poor, but this is great - what we have right here."  "Yep," the others agreed and I heard them talking about having work and family and the money to eat lunch there.  Oh how they fed my soul!  To hear this goodness coming from young people in a public place.  Sure the Mongolian beef and chicken were great, but I left that place convinced that the "holy" is everywhere.

  Dr. Bruce Epperly has written a book entitled "Holy Adventure" and in it he speaks of the wonderful things that happen when we listen to God's nudges and decide to be part of creating love and goodness with God.  Daryl and I are calling this move to California our "holy Adventure" in part because of Bruce's book.  That book helps us find ways to see God in everything.  Today we were privileged to see the face of God in the seniors, burly young men, new friendships, family members, actors and actresses and in the beauty of Lake Michigan. Even on this cold winter day, the hand of God is displayed everywhere!  May you all see the face of God today.  Joy in the Journey, Pastor Bonnie

Lake Michigan near Ruth and Mark's home